HOUSTON, TX – July 17, 2025 – Houston Astros starting pitcher Spencer Arrighetti has been out of action since early April due to a highly unusual injury: a broken right thumb sustained not on the mound, but during batting practice. The young right-hander is now deep into his recovery process, with the Astros hoping for his return to the rotation in the coming weeks.
The unfortunate incident occurred on Monday, April 7, 2025, prior to the Astros’ series opener against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. Arrighetti was reportedly playing catch in the outfield during the Mariners’ batting practice when he was struck directly on his right (pitching) thumb by a line drive. X-rays taken at the stadium confirmed the fracture.
The 25-year-old was subsequently placed on the 15-day injured list on April 8th, retroactive to April 7th. Although the injury was severe enough to sideline him, initial reports brought some relief as he did not require surgery. The nature of the injury — at the base of his thumb — required significant rest and careful rehabilitation to ensure it healed properly, as the thumb is crucial for a pitcher’s grip and spin.
Arrighetti was later transferred to the 60-day injured list on June 14th, a procedural move that opened up a spot on the 40-man roster but did not necessarily change his recovery timeline. He has been steadily progressing through his throwing program, building up volume and intensity. As of early July, he had begun throwing live batting practice sessions and was expected to begin a minor league rehab assignment in about a week to a week and a half.
While there is no definitive date for his return, the expectation is that Arrighetti could be back with the Astros sometime in early to mid-August. His return would be a welcome boost for the Astros’ rotation, which has battled a string of injuries this season, including long-term losses like Hayden Wesneski and Ronel Blanco who both underwent Tommy John surgery.
Arrighetti made just two starts for the Astros in 2025 before the injury, posting a 1-1 record with a 5.59 ERA over 9 2/3 innings. His successful return would provide much-needed depth and a familiar face back on the mound as the Astros push for a postseason spot.